<p>Hello all. I am currently a 4th year undergrad student planning on staying a 5th year. Since it's spring break I'm starting to do some research in regards to grad schools, since my friend who is doing pre-med suggested that starting early is key. I am a civil engineering student who wants to specialize in structural engineering. I would like to stay on the west coast, but wouldn't mind going to the east. One of the biggest factors for me going to a grad school is the vibe more than the prestige. Don't get me wrong going to a university with a great national ranking would be a blessing, however I want to make sure I go to a grad school where I feel comfortable and feel myself than feeling like I dont belong and uncomfortable. I am a pretty laid back type of guy, who likes to have fun from time to time. Research is starting to come into play based on hearing that grad schools like seeing undergrad students in research. Some of the schools I'm currently looking into are UCLA, USC, University of Colorado at Boulder, Cal Poly Slo, University of Washington. I just want some of your guys/girls inputs on what made you decide to select a grad school that you're currently attending or plan on attending. I want to make sure I make the right decision and be happy with that decision than to regret it. Sorry if this doesn't make sure or is sort of confusing, I can re-type it again if you'd like. Anyways thanks for the time to read it and put your input in it if you do so.</p>
<p>What you should really be concerned about for grad school is neither the “vibe” nor “prestige,” but finding professors with compatible research interests. In graduate school, essentially everything flows from your research and your relationship with your major professor.</p>
<p>Great grades and test scores might get you past the first cut, but if you have a research proposal that makes a professor pull your app out of the pile, you have a much better shot at both admission and funding.</p>
<p>So start reading journals, visiting program Web sites and looking through faculty curriculum vitae to find professors whose research directions are of interest to you.</p>
<p>I agree with polarscribe. Start by checking the faculty websites of the schools you named – UCLA, USC, Colorado, SLO, and Washington. You may want to make your own school rankings list based on the number of professors at that school who have interests similar to yours. If any of these schools are close by, try making an appointment to visit with the admissions department, as well as make an appointment with the professors to find out the details on their research. Professors love to talk about their research, so you should not feel intimidated talking to them.</p>